Fingerprint Sensor with Proximity Detection, and Corresponding Devices, Systems, and Methods

ABSTRACT

An electronic device includes a housing and a user interface. One or more processors are operable with the user interface. The user interface includes a touch sensor that includes a fingerprint sensor and at least one proximity sensor component. The proximity sensor component can be collocated with a thermally conductive band circumscribing the fingerprint sensor, or can be concentrically located with the fingerprint sensor. The proximity sensor component can actuate the fingerprint sensor upon receiving an infrared emission from an object external to the housing. The fingerprint sensor or proximity sensor component can then be optionally used to control the electronic device.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

This disclosure relates generally to electronic devices, and moreparticularly to portable electronic devices with biometric.

Background Art

Mobile electronic communication devices, such as mobile telephones,smart phones, gaming devices, and the like, are used by billions ofpeople. The owners of such devices come from all walks of life. Theseowners use mobile communication devices for many different purposesincluding, but not limited to, voice communications, text messaging,Internet browsing, commerce such as banking, and social networking. Thecircumstances under which users of mobile communication device use theirdevices varies widely as well.

As these devices become more sophisticated, they can also become morecomplicated to operate. Designers are constantly working to findtechniques to simplify user interfaces and operating systems to allowusers to take advantage of the sophisticated features of a devicewithout introducing complicated control operations. For example, someelectronic devices are being equipped with biometric sensors. Oneexample of this is the fingerprint sensor. Rather than requiring a userto go through a series of steps to unlock their device, a user implytouches or otherwise interacts with a biometric sensor to identifythemselves to the device. Biometric sensors thus simplify deviceoperation by replacing a series of several steps, and the requirementthat user memorize a passcode, with a simple touch operation.

While the inclusion of devices such as biometric sensors can simplifycomplicated control operations, they are not without issues of theirown. For example, they can consume large amounts of power when not inuse. It would be advantageous to have an improved system having abiometric sensor, yet with reduced power consumption for extendedbattery life.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates one explanatory electronic device in accordance withone or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIGS. 2-5 illustrate explanatory fingerprint sensors proximately locatedwith at least one proximity sensor component configurations inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates one explanatory functional schematic block diagram inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates one explanatory electronic device in accordance withone or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates one or more explanatory method steps using anelectronic device in accordance with one or more embodiments of thedisclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates one or more explanatory method steps using anelectronic device in accordance with one or more embodiments of thedisclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates one or more explanatory method steps using anelectronic device in accordance with one or more embodiments of thedisclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates one or more explanatory method steps using anelectronic device in accordance with one or more embodiments of thedisclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates one explanatory method in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates one explanatory method of controlling an electronicdevice in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 14 illustrates another explanatory method of controlling anelectronic device in accordance with one or more embodiments of thedisclosure.

FIG. 15 illustrates yet another explanatory method of controlling anelectronic device in accordance with one or more embodiments of thedisclosure.

FIG. 16 illustrates another explanatory method in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 17 illustrates still another explanatory method of controlling anelectronic device in accordance with one or more embodiments of thedisclosure.

Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures areillustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily beendrawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements inthe figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help toimprove understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Before describing in detail embodiments that are in accordance with thepresent disclosure, it should be observed that the embodiments resideprimarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus componentsrelated to using a fingerprint sensor proximately located with one ormore proximity sensor components to control modes of operation of anelectronic device. Any process descriptions or blocks in flow chartsshould be understood as representing modules, segments, or portions ofcode that include one or more executable instructions for implementingspecific logical functions or steps in the process.

Embodiments of the disclosure do not recite the implementation of anycommonplace business method aimed at processing business information,nor do they apply a known business process to the particulartechnological environment of the Internet. Moreover, embodiments of thedisclosure do not create or alter contractual relations using genericcomputer functions and conventional network operations. Quite to thecontrary, embodiments of the disclosure employ methods that, whenapplied to electronic device and/or user interface technology, improvethe functioning of the electronic device itself by reducing powerconsumption, extending run time, and improving the overall userexperience to overcome problems specifically arising in the realm of thetechnology associated with electronic device user interaction.

Alternate implementations are included, and it will be clear thatfunctions may be executed out of order from that shown or discussed,including substantially concurrently or in reverse order, depending onthe functionality involved. Accordingly, the apparatus components andmethod steps have been represented where appropriate by conventionalsymbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that arepertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure soas not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readilyapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of thedescription herein.

It will be appreciated that embodiments of the disclosure describedherein may be comprised of one or more conventional processors andunique stored program instructions that control the one or moreprocessors to implement, in conjunction with certain non-processorcircuits, some, most, or all of the functions of controlling fingerprintsensors and/or proximity sensors to control device operation asdescribed herein. The non-processor circuits may include, but are notlimited to, a radio receiver, a radio transmitter, signal drivers, clockcircuits, power source circuits, and other user input devices. As such,these functions may be interpreted as steps of a method to performdevice control in response to one or more proximity sensors components.Alternatively, some or all functions could be implemented by a statemachine that has no stored program instructions, or in one or moreapplication specific integrated circuits (ASICs), in which each functionor some combinations of certain of the functions are implemented ascustom logic. Of course, a combination of the two approaches could beused. Thus, methods and means for these functions have been describedherein. Further, it is expected that one of ordinary skill,notwithstanding possibly significant effort and many design choicesmotivated by, for example, available time, current technology, andeconomic considerations, when guided by the concepts and principlesdisclosed herein will be readily capable of generating such softwareinstructions and programs and ASICs with minimal experimentation.

Embodiments of the disclosure are now described in detail. Referring tothe drawings, like numbers indicate like parts throughout the views. Asused in the description herein and throughout the claims, the followingterms take the meanings explicitly associated herein, unless the contextclearly dictates otherwise: the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includesplural reference, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on.” Relationalterms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be usedsolely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or actionwithout necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationshipor order between such entities or actions. Also, reference designatorsshown herein in parenthesis indicate components shown in a figure otherthan the one in discussion. For example, talking about a device (10)while discussing figure A would refer to an element, 10, shown in figureother than figure A.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide a proximity sensor component thatis proximately located with a fingerprint sensor. In one embodiment, theat least one proximity sensor component comprises a receiver only, anddoes not include a corresponding transmitter. As used herein, a“proximity sensor component” comprises a signal receiver only that doesnot include a corresponding transmitter to emit signals for reflectionoff an object to the signal receiver. A signal receiver only can be useddue to the fact that a user's body or other heat generating objectexternal to device, such as a wearable electronic device worn by user,serves as the transmitter. In other embodiments, an optional infraredtransmitter can be included to reflect signals off a user to the atleast one proximity sensor component.

Illustrating by example, in one the proximity sensor component comprisesa signal receiver to receive signals from objects external to thehousing of the electronic device. In one embodiment, the signal receiveris an infrared signal receiver to receive an infrared emission from anobject, such as a human being's finger, when the object is proximatelylocated with the electronic device. In one or more embodiments, theproximity sensor component is configured to receive infrared wavelengthsof about four to about ten micrometers. This wavelength range isadvantageous in one or more embodiments in that it corresponds to thewavelength of heat emitted by the body of a human being. Additionally,detection of wavelengths in this range is possible from fartherdistances than, for example, would be the detection of reflected signalsfrom the transmitter of a proximity detector component.

In one or more embodiments, one or more proximity sensor components areproximately located with the fingerprint sensor. As used here,“proximately” takes the ordinary English meaning of “close in space,” asset forth in the New Oxford American Dictionary. In other embodiments, aproximity sensor component is concentrically located with thefingerprint sensor, with the proximity sensor component located at thecenter of the fingerprint sensor, with the fingerprint sensor and theproximity sensor component having a common center, with the fingerprintsensor surrounding the proximity sensor component.

Illustrating by example, in one embodiment a user interface comprises atouch sensor. The touch sensor includes a fingerprint sensor that has athermally conductive band circumscribing the fingerprint sensor. In oneor more embodiments, the thermally conductive band can take the shape ofthe perimeter of the fingerprint sensor. For example, if the fingerprintsensor is round, the thermally conductive band can comprise a thermallyconductive ring. If the fingerprint sensor is rectangular, however, thethermally conductive band can be a square or rectangle. Thus, in one ormore embodiments the shape of the thermally conductive band can beround, without corners. However, in other embodiments, the thermallyconductive band can have a shape defined by one or more corners. Othershapes for the thermally conductive band will be obvious to those ofordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

In one embodiment, the thermally conductive band is manufactured from athermally conductive metal, such as aluminum. In one embodiment, atleast one proximity sensor component is collocated with the thermallyconductive band. For example, the thermally conductive band canoptionally include an aperture with a proximity sensor componentsituated within the aperture under the thermally conductive band. Thethermally conductive band can, in one embodiment, be coupled to a groundnode of electronic circuitry, where it advantageously provideselectrostatic discharge protection. Second, the thermally conductiveband can provide grounding protection and electromagnetic interferenceprotection. Third, since the ring provides a conduit for thermal energy,it serves as a thermal conductor to the proximity sensor component.Where the aperture is included in the thermally conductive band, theaperture can be used for other functions, such as for a speaker port. Inone or more embodiments, the proximity sensor component can sense theapproach of a user's finger, and can transition the fingerprint sensorfrom a first mode of operation to a second mode of operation when thisoccurs. In one embodiment, a proximity sensor component and afingerprint sensor are coupled to a common printed circuit board withthe proximity sensor component and the fingerprint sensor in contactwith each other.

In another embodiment, a proximity sensor component can beconcentrically located with the fingerprint sensor. Since the surface ofthe fingerprint sensor can include a plurality of sensors disposed alonga surface of the fingerprint sensor, in one embodiment the sensorssurround the proximity sensor component so that the proximity sensorcomponent can receive thermal energy without interference from thesensors of the finger print sensor. The fingerprint sensor canadditionally optionally include an aperture to receive thermal energyfrom a user's finger. In other embodiments, there is no aperture and thefingerprint sensor serves as a thermal conductor to the proximity sensorcomponent. In either case, the proximity sensor component can be used totransition the fingerprint sensor from a first mode of operation to asecond mode of operation upon receiving an infrared emission from anobject external to the housing.

Regardless of how the proximity sensor component(s) are physicallyconfigured relative to the fingerprint sensor, in one embodiment, whenno user is around, the electronic device enters a low-power or sleepmode. When in this mode, using embodiments of the disclosure thefingerprint sensor and its associated circuitry can also be put into alow-power or sleep mode. Where the fingerprint sensor is in thelow-power or sleep mode, it consumes very little—if any—power. However,in one or more embodiments, while the fingerprint sensor is in a lowpower or sleep mode, the proximity sensor component is in a fully activemode of operation. In one embodiment, the proximity sensor componentcomprises a single infrared signal receiver able to detect infraredemissions from a person. Accordingly, the proximity sensor componentrequires no transmitter since objects disposed external to the housingdeliver emissions that are received by the infrared receiver. As notransmitter is required, the single proximity sensor component canoperate at a very low power level. Simulations show that an infraredsignal receiver can operate with a total current drain of just a fewmicroamps.

When the infrared signal receiver receives an infrared emission from anobject exterior to the housing of the electronic device, such as auser's hand or finger, in on embodiment one or the proximity sensorcomponent is operable to actuate the fingerprint sensor to transition itfrom the low-power or sleep mode to an active mode of operation. Onceawakened to the active mode of operation, the fingerprint sensor isoperable to capture and store fingerprint data from a user's finger. Oneor more processors operable with the fingerprint sensor can then comparethe fingerprint data to reference data stored in memory to determinewhether the fingerprint data substantially matches the reference data,thereby authenticating the user.

Accordingly, by proximately locating a proximity sensor component with afingerprint sensor, the fingerprint sensor can be placed into alow-power or sleep mode to save power. As soon as the proximity sensorcomponent detects a warm object, such as a hand or finger, thefingerprint sensor can be activated for user authentication. Theinclusion of a proximity sensor component allows an electronic device todistinguish proximity input, i.e., “touchless input,” from touch inputwhen a user's hand is in close proximity, e.g., a few inches, from thehousing of the electronic device. The fingerprint sensor can betransitioned from a low-power mode to a full-power, authentication modeby the proximity sensor component.

By waking the fingerprint sensor only in the presence of warm objects,the inclusion of the proximity sensor component advantageously preventsfalse authentication attempts that can occur when an electronic devicecomes into contact with electrically conductive materials that are not apart of the user. This problem, present in prior art electronic deviceshaving conventional fingerprint sensors, wastes power and processingpower. When using embodiments of the disclosure, the fingerprint sensoronly authenticates users when a warm object is nearby.

Embodiments of the disclosure contemplate that power savings—and thuslonger runtime on a single battery charge—can be achieved by causing thefingerprint sensor to enter a low power or sleep mode when the proximitysensor component fails to detect infrared or thermal emissions. However,in one or more embodiments the proximity sensor component can remain inan operational state continually, even while the device and/orfingerprint sensor is not in use. To reduce overall latency, in one ormore embodiments the proximity sensor component can cause thefingerprint sensor to transition to an active mode to capturefingerprint data before the finger actually touches the fingerprintsensor. Optionally, the fingerprint sensor can perform additionalfunctions in the active mode of operation, such as one or morepre-processing steps on the fingerprint data while the main processorsof the electronic device are in a low power or sleep mode. Once thepre-processing of the fingerprint data is confirmed, either an auxiliaryprocessor or the main processors of the electronic device canauthenticate the fingerprint data by comparing it to a reference filestored in memory.

Additional advantages are offered by embodiments of the disclosure. Manymodern devices have user interfaces with a plurality of controls. Forexample, a modern smartphone may have a power button, two buttons tocontrol volume (one to increase volume and one to decrease volume), a“belly” button configured as a large push button on a major face of thedevice, and a touch-sensitive display. Embodiments of the disclosurecontemplate that each of these buttons provides an aperture along thehousing of the electronic device through which water can enter thehousing. Embodiments of the disclosure further contemplate that there isa desire to make more “durable” electronic devices, including those thatcan remain operational while submerged in water.

Accordingly, in one or more embodiments the disposition of a proximitysensor with a fingerprint sensor allows for control mechanisms usingonly this touch sensor. Illustrating by example, in one embodiment amethod of controlling an electronic device includes determining, with atleast one proximity sensor component proximately located with afingerprint sensor, that an object—such as a user's finger—isproximately located with the fingerprint sensor. In response to thisstep of determining, the method can transition the fingerprint sensorfrom a low-power or sleep mode to an active mode of operation aspreviously described. Once this occurs, the method can includedetecting, with the fingerprint sensor, that the object is touching thefingerprint sensor, and also detecting, with the fingerprint sensor, anaction of the object along the fingerprint sensor. When an action isdetected, one or more control circuits operable with the fingerprintsensor can perform a control operation as a function of the action.

The ability to deliver gestures to the fingerprint sensor, as confirmedby the proximity sensor component, allows the touch sensor to serve asthe only user interface component other than the touch-sensitivedisplay. The fingerprint sensor can be configured to be waterproof. Evenwhen the thermally conductive band or the fingerprint sensor itselfincludes an aperture, the aperture can be covered with a thermallyconductive film, such as a polyethylene film. Since conventionalbuttons, such as the power button and volume control buttons can beremoved, advantageously an electronic device can be configured with asingle touch sensor, no buttons, and therefore as a waterproof device.

Illustrating by example, once the proximity sensor component wakes thefingerprint sensor, the fingerprint sensor can detect a user's touch,with confirmation provided by the proximity sensor component. (Theproximity sensor component can confirm touch by detecting receivedthermal signals that saturate in one or more embodiments.) Once both theproximity sensor component and fingerprint sensor both confirm touchinput, they can work in tandem to determine whether the touch input isstationary or in motion. Where the touch input is stationary for atleast a predefined duration, this can cause a control operation to beperformed. In one embodiment, the control operation is powering thedevice ON or OFF.

However, where the touch input is moving, the direction of motion can beused to control operation of the electronic device. Where the motion isin a first direction, such as moving along the fingerprint sensor in avertical direction, this can be used to increase or decrease volume.However, where the motion is horizontal, this can be use for panningoperations, such as for a “gallery” swipe to move from one photograph orwebsite to another. Advantageously, embodiments of the disclosureprovide an improved thermal approach compared to prior art devices.Further, the combination of a proximity sensor component and afingerprint sensor in accordance with one or more embodiments of thedisclosure allows a single touch sensor to control power buttonfunctionality, volume control, and gallery swipes, thereby eliminatingthe need for mechanical buttons. Other added benefits include the factthat a device can be configured to be waterproof and with a betterappearance.

Turning now to FIG. 1, illustrated therein is one explanatory electronicdevice 100 configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of thedisclosure. The electronic device 100 of FIG. 1 is a portable electronicdevice, and is shown as a smart phone for illustrative purposes.However, it should be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the arthaving the benefit of this disclosure that other electronic devices maybe substituted for the explanatory smart phone of FIG. 1. For example,in subsequent figures the electronic device 100 will be shown as atablet computer. Other electronic devices suitable for use withembodiments of the disclosure include a conventional desktop computer,palm-top computer, a gaming device, a media player, or other device.

This illustrative electronic device 100 includes a display 102, whichmay optionally be touch-sensitive. In one embodiment where the display102 is touch-sensitive, the display 102 can serve as a primary userinterface of the electronic device 100. Users can deliver user input tothe display 102 of such an embodiment by delivering touch input from afinger, stylus, or other objects disposed proximately with the display.In one embodiment, the display 102 is configured as an active matrixorganic light emitting diode (AMOLED) display. However, it should benoted that other types of displays, including liquid crystal displays,would be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having thebenefit of this disclosure.

The explanatory electronic device 100 of FIG. 1 includes a housing 101.In one embodiment, the housing 101 includes two housing members. A fronthousing member is disposed about the periphery of the display 102 in oneembodiment. A rear-housing member forms the backside of the electronicdevice 100 in this illustrative embodiment and defines a rear major faceof the electronic device.

In this illustrative embodiment, a touch sensor 112 is disposed alongthe front-housing member beneath the display 102. As will be describedin more detail with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 below, in one or moreembodiments the touch sensor 112 includes at least one proximity sensorcomponent 108 proximately disposed with a fingerprint sensor 110. Forinstance, in one embodiment the touch sensor 112 includes a fingerprintsensor 110, a thermally conductive band circumscribing the fingerprintsensor, and at least one proximity sensor component 108 collocated withthe thermally conductive band. In another embodiment, the touch sensor112 includes a fingerprint sensor 110 and a proximity sensor component108 concentrically located with the fingerprint sensor 110, with thefingerprint sensor 110 comprising a plurality of sensors surrounding theproximity sensor component 108. Other physical architectures proximatelylocating the fingerprint sensor 110 with the proximity sensor component108 will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having thebenefit of this disclosure. For example, while the touch sensor 112 isdisposed beneath the display 102 in this embodiment, the touch sensor112 could be collocated with the display 102 in other embodiments,thereby allowing the user to place a finger on the display 102 foridentification or other device control.

In one or more embodiments, performance of the proximity sensorcomponent 108 may be improved by providing an aperture to allow infraredor thermal emissions to reach the proximity sensor component 108. Forexample, where the proximity sensor component is collocated with athermally conductive band circumscribing the fingerprint sensor 110, anaperture can be included in the thermally conductive band to allowthermal emissions to reach the proximity sensor component 108.Similarly, where the proximity sensor component 108 is concentricallylocated with the fingerprint sensor 110, an aperture can be created inthe center of the fingerprint sensor 110 to allow thermal emissions toreach the proximity sensor component 108. Where it is desirable toinclude an aperture, but still desirable to create an electronic device100 that is waterproof, the aperture can be covered with a thermallyconductive film, such as a polyethylene film layer.

In one embodiment, the touch sensor 112 can be a single function device.In other embodiments, the touch sensor 112 can be a dual ormultifunction device. Illustrating by example, in one embodiment thefingerprint sensor 110 of the touch sensor 112 is solely responsible forreceiving biometric data from a user and either authenticating the useror determining that the user is unauthorized to use the electronicdevice 100. This would be a single function touch sensor.

In other embodiments, the touch sensor 112 may be capable of performingmultiple functions. Again illustrating by example, in one embodiment thefingerprint sensor 110 can receive biometric data from a user and eitherauthenticate the user or determine that the user is unauthorized to usethe electronic device 100. However, the fingerprint sensor 110 may alsobe configured to detect motion along its surface. For example, in one ormore embodiments one or more processors 116 operable with thefingerprint sensor 110 can be configured to detect motion of an object,such as a user's finger, along the surface of the fingerprint sensor110.

In one or more embodiments, the one or more processors 116, operating intandem with the fingerprint sensor 110, can detect an action of theobject along the fingerprint sensor. Where such an action is detected,the one or more processors 116 can perform a control operation as afunction of the action. Where, for instance, the action comprises theobject remaining stationary for a predefined duration, the controloperation can comprise one of powering the electronic device OFF or ON.Alternatively, where the action comprises movement of the object alongthe fingerprint sensor in a first direction, the control operation maycomprise adjusting a volume of an audio output of the electronic device.Where the action comprises movement of the object along the fingerprintsensor in a second direction, the control operation may comprise apanning operation to alter a presentation on a display of the electronicdevice. Other actions and control operations occurring as a function ofthe action will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art havingthe benefit of this disclosure.

Thus, by touching the touch sensor 112 the user may deliver biometricdata only. However, by touching the touch sensor 112 and then performingan action by moving a finger along the surface of the touch sensor 112,the touch sensor 112 may both authenticate the user by receiving thebiometric data from touch input and perform a second function as afunction of the action. This is in addition to the secondary functionsof causing the fingerprint sensor 110 and/or one or more processors 116to exit a low power or sleep mode when a user's finger approaches theelectronic device 100 as detected by the at least one proximity sensorcomponent 108.

Where the touch sensor 112 is a multifunction device, is instead asingle function device, other user control such as push buttons may beomitted. This results in the electronic device 100 being able to bewaterproof. This also results in the electronic device 100 having abetter appearance without buttons. It should be noted that where thetouch sensor 112 is a multifunction device, the inclusion of the touchsensor can be a “zero cost adder.” This is true because when thefingerprint sensor 110 is a single function device, other push buttonsmust be included to control power, volume, and panning operations. Eachof these buttons includes a cost, as does machining the housing todefine apertures for the buttons. By including a proximity sensorcomponent 108 that is proximately located with a fingerprint sensor 110in a touch sensor 112, three buttons and three apertures in the housingcan be eliminated. This elimination more than offsets the cost of theproximity sensor component 108 when only a single proximity sensorcomponent 108 is used in the touch sensor 112. Cost analysis shows thatthe inclusion of a multi-function touch sensor 112 actually saves costover prior art devices that include a single-function fingerprint sensorand three additional buttons.

In one embodiment, the electronic device 100 includes one or moreconnectors. However, where the electronic device 100 is to bewaterproof, these connectors can be inductively coupled, therebyrequiring no apertures. Such connectors can include those transmittinganalog data, digital data, power, or combinations thereof.

A block diagram schematic 115 of the electronic device 100 is also shownin FIG. 1. In one embodiment, the electronic device 100 includes one ormore processors 116. In one embodiment, the one or more processors 116can include an application processor and, optionally, one or moreauxiliary processors. One or both of the application processor or theauxiliary processor(s) can include one or more processors. One or bothof the application processor or the auxiliary processor(s) can be amicroprocessor, a group of processing components, one or more ASICs,programmable logic, or other type of processing device. The applicationprocessor and the auxiliary processor(s) can be operable with thevarious components of the electronic device 100. Each of the applicationprocessor and the auxiliary processor(s) can be configured to processand execute executable software code to perform the various functions ofthe electronic device 100. A storage device, such as memory 118, canoptionally store the executable software code used by the one or moreprocessors 116 during operation.

In this illustrative embodiment, the electronic device 100 also includesa communication circuit 125 that can be configured for wired or wirelesscommunication with one or more other devices or networks. The networkscan include a wide area network, a local area network, and/or personalarea network. Examples of wide area networks include GSM, CDMA, W-CDMA,CDMA-2000, iDEN, TDMA, 2.5 Generation 3GPP GSM networks, 3rd Generation3GPP WCDMA networks, 3GPP Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks, and 3GPP2CDMA communication networks, UMTS networks, E-UTRA networks, GPRSnetworks, iDEN networks, and other networks.

The communication circuit 125 may also utilize wireless technology forcommunication, such as, but are not limited to, peer-to-peer or ad hoccommunications such as HomeRF, Bluetooth and IEEE 802.11 (a, b, g or n);and other forms of wireless communication such as infrared technology.The communication circuit 125 can include wireless communicationcircuitry, one of a receiver, a transmitter, or transceiver, and one ormore antennas 126.

The fingerprint sensor 110 is operable with the one or more processors116 in one or more embodiments. In one embodiment, the fingerprintsensor 110 includes its own processor 141 to perform various functions,including detecting a finger touching the fingerprint sensor 110,capturing and storing fingerprint data from the finger, detecting useractions across a surface of the fingerprint sensor 110, performing atleast one pre-processing step while the one or more processors 116 is ina low power or sleep mode, and upon receiving a request from the one ormore processors 116 for the fingerprint data, delivering the fingerprintdata to the one or more processors 116. In one or more embodiments theprocessor 141 of the fingerprint sensor 110 can, as one pre-processingstep, perform a preliminary authentication of the user by comparingfingerprint data captured by the fingerprint sensor 110 to a referencefile stored in memory 118. The processor 141 of the fingerprint sensor110 can be an on-board processor. Alternatively, the processor 141 canbe a secondary processor that is external to, but operable with, thefingerprint sensor in another embodiment. Other configurations will beobvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of thisdisclosure.

In one embodiment, the fingerprint sensor 110 can include a plurality ofsensors, which are shown in more detail with reference to FIG. 5 below.The fingerprint sensor 110 can be a complementarymetal-oxide-semiconductor active pixel sensor digital imager or anyother fingerprint sensor. The fingerprint sensor 110 can be configuredto capture, with the plurality of sensors, a live scan of a fingerprintpattern from a finger disposed along its surface, and to store thisinformation as fingerprint data from the user's finger. The fingerprintsensor 110 may also be able to capture one or more images with theplurality of sensors. The images can correspond to an area beneath asurface of skin. The fingerprint sensor 110 can compare the fingerprintdata or skin images to one or more references to authenticate a user inan authentication process.

In one embodiment, one or more proximity sensor components 108 pluralityof proximity sensor components 108 can be proximately located with thefingerprint sensor 110. For instance, in one embodiment the touch sensor112 includes a fingerprint sensor 110, a thermally conductive bandcircumscribing the fingerprint sensor, and at least one proximity sensorcomponent 108 collocated with the thermally conductive band. In anotherembodiment, the touch sensor 112 includes a fingerprint sensor 110 and aproximity sensor component 108 concentrically located with thefingerprint sensor 110, with the plurality of sensors of the fingerprintsensor 110 surrounding the proximity sensor component 108. Some of theseconfigurations will be illustrated below with reference to FIGS. 2-5.Still others will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the arthaving the benefit of this disclosure.

In one embodiment, the proximity sensor component 108 or components areoperable with the one or more processors 116. In one embodiment, the oneor more proximity sensor components 108 comprise only signal receivers.In one embodiment, the one or more proximity sensor components 108comprise a single proximity sensor component. In one embodiment, theproximity sensor component 108 comprises an infrared receiver. Forexample, in one embodiment the proximity sensor component 108 comprisesone or more signal receivers that receive infrared wavelengths of about860 nanometers.

In one embodiment, the proximity sensor component 108 has a relativelylong detection range so as to detect heat emanating from a person's bodywhen that person is within a predefined thermal reception radius. Forexample, the proximity sensor component may be able to detect a person'sbody heat from a distance of about ten feet in one or more embodiments.However, the signal receiver of the proximity sensor component 108 canoperate at various sensitivity levels so as to cause the at least oneproximity sensor component 108 to be operable to receive the infraredemissions from different distances. For example, the one or moreprocessors 116 can cause the proximity sensor component 108 to operateanother sensitivity, which is less than the first sensitivity, so as toreceive infrared emissions from a second distance, which is less thanthe first distance. In other embodiments, the proximity sensor component108 can be designed to have changing detection thresholds controlled bythe one or more processors 116.

In one embodiment, the proximity sensor component 108 comprises aninfrared signal receiver so as to be able to detect infrared emissionsfrom a person. This is sometimes referred to as a “passive IR system”due to the fact that the person is the active transmitter. Accordingly,the proximity sensor component 108 requires no transmitter since objectsdisposed external to the housing deliver emissions that are received bythe infrared receiver. As no transmitter is required, each proximitysensor component 108 can operate at a very low power level, which istypically less than ten microamps per sensor. Simulations show that agroup of infrared signal receivers can operate with a total currentdrain of just a few microamps.

The one or more processors 116 can be responsible for performing theprimary functions of the electronic device 100. For example, in oneembodiment the one or more processors 116 comprise one or more circuitsoperable with one or more user interface devices, which can include thedisplay 102, to present presentation information to a user. Theexecutable software code used by the one or more processors 116 can beconfigured as one or more modules 120 that are operable with the one ormore processors 116. Such modules 120 can store instructions, controlalgorithms, and so forth.

In one embodiment, the one or more processors 116 are responsible forrunning the operating system environment 121. The operating systemenvironment 121 can include a kernel 122 and one or more drivers, and anapplication service layer 123, and an application layer 124. Theoperating system environment 121 can be configured as executable codeoperating on one or more processors or control circuits of theelectronic device 100. The application layer 124 can be responsible forexecuting application service modules. The application service modulesmay support one or more applications or “apps.” The applications of theapplication layer 124 can be configured as clients of the applicationservice layer 123 to communicate with services through applicationprogram interfaces (APIs), messages, events, or other inter-processcommunication interfaces. Where auxiliary processors are used, they canbe used to execute input/output functions, actuate user feedbackdevices, and so forth.

In one or more embodiments, the fingerprint sensor 110 and the one ormore processors 116 can be placed into a low power or sleep mode whenthe electronic device 100 is not in use. When the one or more processors116 are in the low power or sleep mode, the display 102 may be OFF andthe various applications will not be operational.

By contrast, in one or more embodiments when the fingerprint sensor 110is in the low power or sleep mode, the proximity sensor component 108may be left in a continually operational mode. Said differently, in oneor more embodiments the proximity sensor component 108 is to operate inan operational mode while the fingerprint sensor 110 is in the low poweror sleep mode to conserve power. As the proximity sensor component 108consumes relatively low power, battery life and overall device runtimeare extended.

The proximity sensor component 108 is configured to detect a finger orother object within a predetermined distance, such as a few inches, fromthe fingerprint sensor 110. When the infrared sensor of the proximitysensor component 108 receives infrared emissions from a warm objectexternal to the housing 101, such as a user's finger, the one or moreproximity sensor components 108 are to actuate the fingerprint sensor110. In one embodiment, the one or more proximity sensor components 108actuate the fingerprint sensor 110 by transitioning the fingerprintsensor 110 from the low power or sleep mode to an active mode ofoperation. When in the active mode of operation, the fingerprint sensor110 is to capture and store fingerprint data from the finger. Thefingerprint sensor 110 can optionally detect user actions across thefingerprint sensor 110, such as those described below with reference toFIGS. 13-16. Either the processor 141 of the fingerprint sensor 110, oralternatively the one or more processors 116, can compare thefingerprint data to reference data 143 stored in the memory 118 todetermine whether the fingerprint data substantially matches thereference data to authenticate a user.

In one or more embodiments, the proximity sensor component 108 canoptionally arm the fingerprint sensor 110 upon receiving an infraredemission from an object external to the housing, as well as actuate theone or more processors 116 prior to a user touching the fingerprintsensor 110. For example, when the electronic device 100 is unlocked andoperational, there may be little or no need for biometric authenticationvia the fingerprint sensor 110. Accordingly, the one or more processors116 may disarm the biometric authentication. Where the fingerprintsensor 110 is a dual or multifunction device, secondary or otherfunctionality may remain operational when the biometric authenticationfunction is disarmed. For instance, a user may still be able to performactions across the surface of the fingerprint sensor 110 to controlvolume, perform gallery swipes, or turn the electronic device 100 OFF.Alternatively, a user may be able to make gestures above the touchsensor 112 to, for example, take a photograph. In many instances whenthe one or more processors 116 enter the low power or sleep mode, theymay lock the electronic device 100 and the fingerprint sensor 110 toconserve power. Accordingly, in one or more embodiments the proximitysensor component 108 arms and/or activates the fingerprint sensor 110upon receiving thermal emissions from an object external to the housing.

In one embodiment, the electronic device 100 can include a timer 144. Inone embodiment, when the proximity sensor component 108 receives aninfrared emission, and the proximity sensor component 108 transitionsthe fingerprint sensor 110 to the active mode of operation, any of theproximity sensor component 108, the one or more processors 116, or theprocessor 141 of the fingerprint sensor 110 can initiate the timer 144.If the fingerprint sensor 110 fails to capture and store the fingerprintdata prior to expiration of the timer 144, the fingerprint sensor 110can transition back to the low power or sleep mode. Including the timer144 ensures that the fingerprint sensor 110 does not stay ON where, forexample, a user merely passes a hand over the electronic device 100 andtriggering the proximity sensor component 108.

Turning now to FIGS. 2-5, illustrated therein are various explanatoryfingerprint sensor and proximity sensor component configurations.Beginning with FIGS. 2-3, illustrated therein is a user interface (111)of the electronic device 100 comprising a first embodiment of a touchsensor 112. In this illustrative embodiment, the touch sensor 112comprises a fingerprint sensor 110, a thermally conductive band 301, andat least one proximity sensor component 108. In this illustrativeembodiment, the thermally conductive band 301 circumscribes thefingerprint sensor 110, and the at least one proximity sensor component108 is collocated with the thermally conductive band 301. In oneembodiment, the thermally conductive band 301 is manufactured from amaterial that serves as a conduit for thermal energy reaching thethermally conductive band 301 from exterior of the housing (101) of theelectronic device 100 to the at least one proximity sensor component108. For example, the thermally conductive band 301 can be manufacturedfrom a thermally conductive metal such as steel or aluminum. Thus, inone or more embodiments the thermally conductive band 301 comprises analuminum ring.

In one embodiment, the at least one proximity sensor component 108 isdisposed beneath the thermally conductive band 301. As such, thethermally conductive band 301 defines a thermal conduit between asurface of the thermally conductive band and the at least one proximitysensor component 108. Where so configured, the thermally conductive band301 can translate thermal energy, by functioning as a heat conductor,from a user's finger when it touches or otherwise warms the thermallyconductive band 301. Such an embodiment is shown in FIG. 2. Note thatwhile a single proximity sensor component 108 is shown in FIG. 2, inother embodiments multiple proximity sensor components can be used.

In another embodiment, the thermally conductive band 301 can define anaperture 302 to allow thermal energy to pass directly to the proximitysensor component 108. Such an embodiment is shown in FIG. 3. Thisconfiguration allows the proximity sensor component 108 to detect anapproaching finger from farther distances. In this illustrativeembodiment, the at least one proximity sensor component 108 iscollocated with the at least one aperture 302. Note that while a singleaperture 302 and a single proximity sensor component 108 is shown inFIG. 3, in other embodiments multiple apertures and proximity sensorcomponents can be used.

Where the aperture 302 is included, it can provide other benefits aswell. For example, in one embodiment the user interface (111) of theelectronic device 100 also includes an audio output device (113), suchas a loudspeaker, that is operable with the one or more processors(116). Where this is the case, the aperture 302 can define an acousticport for the audio output device (113). Where the user interface (111)of the electronic device includes a microphone or audio input device,the acoustic port can be used for the audio input device instead of, orin addition to, serving as an acoustic port for the audio output device(113).

Where it is desirable to make the electronic device 100 waterproof, andthe aperture 302 is included, the aperture can optionally be coveredwith a thermally transmissive film layer 303 to prevent the ingress ofwater or other liquids. In one embodiment, the thermally transmissivefilm layer 303 comprises a polyethylene film layer. Accordingly, in oneor more embodiments the touch sensor 112 includes a thermallytransmissive film layer 303 spanning the at least one aperture 302.

In one or more embodiments, the thermally conductive band 301 can becoupled to a ground node 201 of the electronic device 100.Advantageously, this allows the thermally conductive band 301 to defineone or more of an electrostatic shield for the at least one proximitysensor component 108 or an electromagnetic shield for the at least oneproximity sensor component 108. Accordingly, in one or more embodimentsthe inclusion of the thermally conductive band 301 can serves multiplepurposes: first, it can provide electrostatic discharge protection forone or both of the fingerprint sensor 110 and the proximity sensorcomponent 108. Second, it can provide grounding and/or electromagneticinterference protection for one or both of the fingerprint sensor 110and the proximity sensor component 108. Third, the thermally conductiveband 301 can serve as a heat conductor to translate thermal energy tothe proximity sensor component 108. Fourth, where desired, the aperture302 of the thermally conductive band 301 can serve as a speaker port aspreviously described.

In the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 2 and 3, the user interface(111) of the electronic device includes only the display 102 and thetouch sensor 112. No other buttons or controls are included, therebyproviding a sleek and seamless appearance. Additionally, the electronicdevice 100 can be waterproof, as noted above.

Turning now to FIGS. 4-5, in another embodiment the touch sensor 112 caninclude a fingerprint sensor 110 and a proximity sensor component 108that is concentrically located with the fingerprint sensor 110.Embodiments of the disclosure contemplate that it can be advantageous toplace a fingerprint sensor 110 under a continuous glass or sapphirefascia 401 of an electronic device 100, as doing so improves the overallappearance, prevents the ingress of liquids and other materials, andreduces cost. Accordingly, there may be applications in which athermally conductive band (301) will not be included. For this reason,the embodiment of FIGS. 4-5 concentrically locates the proximity sensorcomponent 108 with the fingerprint sensor 110 beneath the fascia 401 toprovide a clean, smooth appearance. The inclusion of the proximitysensor component 108 with a fingerprint sensor 110 offers to capabilityof verifying that an actual finger is touching the fingerprint sensor110 rather than another object.

In one embodiment, the proximity sensor component 108 and fingerprintsensor 110 combination is simply disposed beneath the fascia 401 of theelectronic device 100. As such, the fascia 401 defines a thermal conduitbetween a surface of the electronic device 100 and the proximity sensorcomponent 108. Where so configured, the fascia 401 transfers thermalenergy, by functioning as a heat conductor, from a user's finger when ittouches the fascia 401.

In another embodiment, the fascia 401 can define a small hole oraperture 502 to allow thermal energy to pass directly to the proximitysensor component 108. In one embodiment, the aperture 502 can beconcentrically located with the proximity sensor component 108. Here,the aperture 502 is axially aligned with the proximity sensor component108 along the Z-axis running into and out of the page.

In one embodiment, this aperture 502 is less than 0.2 millimeters indiameter. The inclusion of the aperture 502 is possible due to the factthat the plurality of sensors 501 are separated from the processor 141of the fingerprint sensor 110. The inclusion of the aperture 502advantageously allows the proximity sensor component 108 to detect anapproaching finger from farther distances.

Where the aperture 502 is included, it can define an acoustic port forthe audio output device (113) as previously described. Additionally,where it is desirable to make the electronic device 100 waterproof, theaperture 502 can optionally be covered with a thermally transmissivefilm layer as previously described.

As best shown in FIG. 5, in one or more embodiments the fingerprintsensor 110 comprises a plurality of sensors 501 disposed along a surfaceof the fingerprint sensor 110. For example, in one embodiment theplurality of sensors 501 comprise indium-tin oxide electrical conductorsthat are deposited along a surface of the fingerprint sensor. Where theproximity sensor component 108 is concentrically located with thefingerprint sensor 110, in one or more embodiments the plurality ofsensors 501 surrounds the proximity sensor component 108.

In this illustrative embodiment, the plurality of sensors 501 have beenmodified by removing six or fewer horizontal and vertical sensor linesthat would pass across the proximity sensor component 108 to define avertical sensorless channel 503 and a horizontal sensorless channel 504.In one embodiment, since the sensor line spacing is roughly fiftymicrometers, this results in the vertical sensorless channel 503 and thehorizontal sensorless channel 504 having a width of 300 micrometers orless. Simulations demonstrate that the vertical sensorless channel 503and the horizontal sensorless channel 504 account for less than tenpercent of the fingerprint sensor area, so the elimination of theselines to accommodate the proximity sensor component 108 can becompensated by additional sensing algorithms performed by the processors141 of the fingerprint sensor 110.

The proximity sensor component 108 then is able to sense the temperatureof a finger touching the fascia 401 at the touch sensor 112. Thisprovides several benefits: First, the touch sensor 112 is able to verifythat a live finger is touching the touch sensor 112 area when theproximity sensor component 108 detects thermal energy from the finger.Second, security is enhanced because the proximity sensor component'sdetection of the thermal energy increases confidence in theidentification of the user based on thermography. Third, the concentriclocation of the fingerprint sensor 110 and the proximity sensorcomponent 108 allows the user to interact with only a single touchsensor 112, thereby allowing the user to more naturally interact withthe touch sensor 112.

In either the embodiment of FIGS. 2-3 or the embodiment of FIGS. 4-5, anoptional infrared transmitter 505 can be included beneath the fascia401. While the proximity sensor component 108 can comprise a signalreceiver such as an infrared photodiode to detect an infrared emissionfrom an object external to the housing 101 of the electronic device 100,the infrared transmitter 505 can comprise a signal emitter thattransmits a beam of infrared light that reflects from a nearby objectand is received by the proximity sensor component 108 through theaperture 502. Where the infrared transmitter (505) is included, it canbe used, for example, to compute the distance to any nearby object fromcharacteristics associated with the reflected signals.

It should be noted that while FIGS. 2-5 illustrate some possibleconfigurations for proximity sensor components 108 and fingerprintsensors 110, others would be obvious to those of ordinary skill in theart having the benefit of this disclosure. For example, proximity sensorcomponents 108 can be disposed about a perimeter of the fingerprintsensor 110, immediately adjacent to the fingerprint sensor 110 withsides of the single proximity sensor component 108 and the fingerprintsensor abutting, or adjacent to the fingerprint sensor 110 with onebeing separated from the other by a millimeter or two. Moreover, ratherthan a single proximity sensor component a plurality of proximity sensorcomponents can be used in conjunction with a fingerprint sensor.Accordingly, while FIGS. 2-5 included only a single proximity sensorcomponent 108, they could have included multiple proximity sensorcomponents as well. Also, the embodiments of FIGS. 2-5 are explanatoryonly, as others will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the arthaving the benefit of this disclosure.

Turning now to FIG. 6, illustrated therein a functional diagram 400indicating which functions occur where the fingerprint sensor 110 isoperating in conjunction with one or more proximity sensor components108 in one or more embodiments of the disclosure. In this embodiment,the proximity sensor component 108 comprises an infrared signal receiverproximately located with the fingerprint sensor 110, such as beingcollocated with a thermally conductive band (301) or concentricallylocated with the fingerprint sensor 110.

The proximity sensor component 108 is operable to detect objects 608external to the housing of an electronic device by receiving infraredemissions. When this occurs, the proximity sensor component 108 cantransition 609 the fingerprint sensor 110 from a low power or sleep modeto an active mode of operation. Additionally, the proximity sensorcomponent 108 can initiate 610 a timer when the infrared signal receiverreceives the infrared emission.

The fingerprint sensor 110 can then capture 603 and store fingerprintdata from a finger coming into contact with the fingerprint sensor 110.The fingerprint sensor 110 can optionally pre-process 604 thefingerprint data. Examples of capturing and pre-processing steps includemonitoring 602 the fingerprint sensor 110 to detect a finger proximatelylocated with the fingerprint sensor 110 and capturing 603 fingerprintdata. The capturing and pre-processing steps can also include noisefiltering or other pre-processing steps.

The capturing and pre-processing steps can further include validating605 whether an object proximately located with the fingerprint sensor110 is actually a finger rather than another inanimate object such as akey ring, lipstick case, or other object. The capturing andpre-processing steps can also include image validation 606. The imagevalidation 606 can include determining if the fingerprint data is ofsufficient quality so as to successfully make it through the matchingand control steps occurring in either the one or more processors (116)of the electronic device or a processor (141) of the fingerprint sensor110. In other embodiments, where multiple sets of the fingerprint dataexists, the image validation 606 can include comparing the second objector fingerprint data to primary object or fingerprint data and deleting alesser quality one of the second object or fingerprint data and theprimary object or fingerprint data.

In some situations, the proximity sensor component 108 will cause thefingerprint sensor 110 to enter the active mode. However, no finger willtouch the fingerprint sensor 110. Such a situation can arise where auser waves their hand near the device without touching it. The proximitysensor component will receive infrared emissions, but the user will nottouch the fingerprint sensor 110. (Note that these infrared emissionscan be interpreted as gesture inputs in other embodiments.) Accordingly,when the proximity sensor component 108 initiates the timer, and wherethe fingerprint sensor fails to capture and store fingerprint data priorto expiration of the timer, the proximity sensor component 108, or oneor more processors operational therewith, can transition 611 thefingerprint sensor 110 from the active mode to the low power or sleepmode. The fingerprint sensor 110 can then operate in the low power orsleep mode until the proximity sensor component detects another warmobject by receiving infrared emissions.

As noted above, in one or more embodiments the at least one proximitysensor component 108 can actuate the fingerprint sensor 110 uponreceiving an infrared emission from an object external to the housing.Turning now to FIGS. 7-12, illustrated therein are methods for doing so.

Beginning with FIG. 7, an electronic device 700 has entered a low poweror sleep mode. This can occur when a user does not interact with theelectronic device 700 for a predefined period of time. When in thismode, the display 702 is blank as the one or more processors haveentered a low power or sleep mode. When this occurs, in one embodimentthe fingerprint sensor 110 of the touch sensor 112 is also placed into alow power or sleep mode to conserve power. However, one or moreproximity sensor components (108) of the touch sensor 112 are in theiractive mode of operation to detect objects external to the housing 701of the electronic device 700 by receiving infrared emissions.

Turning now to FIG. 8, a user 800 has a finger 801 near the proximitysensor component (108). As the finger 801 is a warm object, it deliversan infrared emission 802 to the proximity sensor component (108). Wherean infrared transmitter 505 is included, reflections 803 may bedelivered to the proximity sensor component (108). Accordingly, theproximity sensor component (108) transitions the fingerprint sensor 110from a low-power or sleep mode to an active mode.

In addition to waking the fingerprint sensor 110, the proximity sensorcomponent (108) can perform other operations as well. Illustrating byexample, in one embodiment the proximity sensor component (108) canoptionally can wake the one or more processors (116) of the electronicdevice (700), thereby transitioning the electronic device (700) to anactive mode of operation. In another embodiment, the proximity sensorcomponent (108) can optionally wake the display (102) so that it isactive when the user touches the electronic device (700) or display(102). Other actions will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in theart having the benefit of this disclosure.

Turning to FIG. 9, the user 800 places the finger 801 against thefingerprint sensor (110). Accordingly, the fingerprint sensor (110)captures and store fingerprint data from the finger 801 when in theactive mode. In one embodiment, the fingerprint sensor (110) firstconfirms the finger 801 is actually a finger. Where this is the case,the process of authenticating the user 800 begins. One of severaloptions can occur: First, authentication can be successful. Where thisis the case, the fingerprint sensor (110) can wake the one or moreprocessors (116) of the electronic device 700, transitioning theelectronic device 700 to an active mode of operation. Alternatively,authentication can be unsuccessful. Where this is the case, thefingerprint sensor (110) can return to the low-power or sleep mode untilthe proximity sensor component (108) detects another object. In a thirdcase, the user may be unidentified, but the one or more processors (116)may be actuated nonetheless so that the user can authenticate themselvesby other techniques, such as by entering a personal identificationnumber. In one embodiment, once the user is authenticated, if theelectronic device 700 remains in an active state, i.e., is not leftresting on a table or other surface, the user will remain authenticatedas it is presumed that the constant motion of the active state resultsfrom the electronic device 700 being continually held by the user.

Turning to FIG. 10, the authentication in this example has beensuccessful. As such, the one or more processors (116) transition to anactive mode and the display 702 becomes active. Here, the user 800 isthus able to look at a picture 1001 of a new restaurant they want totry, Buster's Chicken Shack.

Turning to FIG. 11, in this example the user 800 merely swipes 1101their hand 1100 over the electronic device 100. Perhaps the user 800 isdelivering gesture input to the electronic device 700, such as to causethe electronic device 700 to capture a picture with a built-in camera.Perhaps the swipe 1101 is accidental. In either event, the proximitysensor component (108) of the touch sensor 112 receives an infraredemission from the hand 1100. Accordingly, the proximity sensor component(108) wakes 1102 the fingerprint sensor 110 from the low-power or sleepmode. A timer 144 is also initiated 1103.

However, the user 800 never touches the fingerprint sensor 110.Accordingly, the fingerprint sensor 110 fails 1104 to receive 1105fingerprint data 1106 prior to expiration of the timer 144. In oneembodiment, one of the proximity sensor component (108) or the one ormore processors (116) of the electronic device 700 therefore perform acontrol operation 1107. In one embodiment, the control operation 1107comprises placing the fingerprint sensor 110 back in the low power orsleep mode.

Turning now to FIG. 12, illustrated therein is one explanatory method1200 for operating an electronic device in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the disclosure. At step 1201, the method 1200 includesoperating at least one proximity sensor component in an active modewhile a fingerprint sensor is in the low-power or sleep mode.

At step 1202, the method 1200 includes determining, with at least oneproximity sensor component proximately located with a fingerprintsensor, a proximity of the object to the fingerprint sensor. In oneembodiment, the at least one proximity sensor component comprises aninfrared signal receiver to receive an infrared emission from an objectexternal to a housing.

In one embodiment, the infrared signal receiver detects the object atstep 1202 when the proximity of the object is less than a predetermineddistance from a housing of the electronic device. One example of such apredetermined distance would be less than three inches from the housing.Other examples of predetermined distances will be obvious to those ofordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

At step 1203, and in response to detecting the proximity of the object,the method 1200 can transition the fingerprint sensor from a low poweror sleep mode to an active mode of operation.

At optional step 1204, the method 1200 can include initiating a timer inresponse to the at least one proximity sensor component detecting theobject at step 1202. In another embodiment, the method 1200 initiatesthe timer at step 1204 when the object is less than the predetermineddistance from the fingerprint sensor.

At optional decision 1205, the method checks to see whether the timerhas expired without the fingerprint sensor receiving fingerprint data.Where this is the case, i.e., where the fingerprint sensor fails tocapture fingerprint data prior to expiration of the timer, the method1200 can return the fingerprint sensor to the low power or sleep mode atstep 1206.

At step 1207, the method 1200 can receive, with the fingerprint sensor,fingerprint data. At step 1208, the method 1200 can attempt toauthenticate the fingerprint data.

At decision 1209, the method 1200 can determine whether the fingerprintdata is authenticated. Where it is, the method 1200 can transition theelectronic device to an active mode of operation at step 1210. However,at step 1206 the method 1200 can return the fingerprint sensor to thelow power or sleep mode upon failing to authenticate the fingerprintdata.

As noted above, in one or more embodiments, the touch sensor 112 canalso detecting an action of the object along the fingerprint sensor 110.When this occurs, one or more processors can perform a control operationas a function of the action. Advantageously, the touch sensor 112 canreacts to a live user's temperature, through infrared emissions, asopposed to only acting in response to physical touch. Accordingly, thetouch sensor 112 can assess swipe gestures as well as touch input.Embodiments of the disclosure therefore offer early and seamlessfingerprint sensor engagement with an approaching finger. Embodiments ofthe disclosure conserve considerable power, and also reduce falseactuation of the fingerprint sensor 110 since the inclusion of theproximity sensor component (108) causes the fingerprint sensor 110 torespond to a warm body rather than inanimate objects such as keychains.

Turning now to FIGS. 13-16, illustrated therein are methods for using atouch sensor 112 comprising a fingerprint sensor 110 and a proximitysensor component (108) as configured in either FIGS. 3-4 or FIGS. 4-5.Beginning with FIG. 13, a user 800 touches a touch sensor 112 with theirfinger 801 at step 1301. The electronic device 700 is initially OFF. Theproximity sensor component (108) detects the approaching finger 801, andwakes the fingerprint sensor (110) from a low-power state. The proximitysensor component (108) saturates when the finger 801 contacts thefingerprint sensor (110), and the fingerprint sensor (110) authenticatesthe user 800 as previously described.

After authentication, as shown at steps 1301,1302, the user's finger 801is then stationary on the touch sensor 112 for a predetermined duration,such as five or six seconds. When this occurs, one or more processors ofthe electronic device 700 interpret this as user input requesting thatthe electronic device 700 power ON. Accordingly, at step 1304, theelectronic device 700 powers ON. It should be noted that these steps1301,1302,1303,1304 could be executed in reverse order, with the userinput requesting that the electronic device 700 power OFF as well.

Turning now to FIG. 14, at step 1401 the user 800 is listening to “Mac'sChicken Shack Boogie Woogie” by the legendary band Buster's Bluesmen. Atstep 1401 the electronic device 700 is ON and operational, and so theauthentication feature provided by the touch sensor 112 is deactivated.Since the electronic device 700 includes no buttons, and insteadincludes a user interface consisting essentially of the touch sensor 112and the touch-sensitive display 702, the touch sensor 112 can now beused as a control device in accordance with one or more embodiments ofthe disclosure. At step 1401, the touch sensor detects, with either thefingerprint sensor 110 or the proximity sensor component (108), theuser's finger 801 touching the touch sensor 112.

As shown at steps 1402-1403, the touch sensor then detects, an action1405 of the finger 801 along the fingerprint sensor 110. In thisillustrative embodiment, the action 1405 is movement of the finger 801along the fingerprint sensor 110 in a first direction. In thisembodiment, the first direction is vertical. Said differently, of thedisplay 702 of the electronic device 700 defines an X-Y plane, with theX-axis defining a horizontal axis parallel to the words “Buster'sBluesmen,” the Y-axis is oriented orthogonal to the X-axis. In thisillustrative embodiment, when the action 1405 comprises movement alongthe Y-axis, the control operation comprises adjusting 1406 the volume1407 of an audio output of the electronic device as shown at step 1404.

In contrast with the action 1405 of FIG. 14, in FIG. 15, the action 1505is horizontal, i.e., along the X-axis. Beginning with step 1501, theuser 800 is looking at a picture of his friend, Kayla. The electronicdevice 700 is ON and operational, and so the touch sensor 112 can now beused as a control device in accordance with one or more embodiments ofthe disclosure. At step 1501, the touch sensor detects, with either thefingerprint sensor 110 or the proximity sensor component (108), theuser's finger 801 touching the touch sensor 112.

As shown at steps 1502-1503, the touch sensor then detects, an action1505 of the finger 801 along the fingerprint sensor 110. In thisillustrative embodiment, the action 1505 is movement of the finger 801along the fingerprint sensor 110 in a second direction, which isdifferent from the first direction. In this embodiment, the seconddirection is horizontal. In this illustrative embodiment, when theaction 1505 comprises movement along the X-axis, the control operationcomprises a panning swipe to alter a presentation on a display 702 ofthe electronic device 700. As shown at step 1504, the presentation hasbeen adjusted by changing the picture of Kayla to a picture of theuser's family.

It should be noted that while volume adjustment and panning swipes aretwo illustrative examples of control operations that can be performed inresponse to detecting actions, embodiments of the disclosure are not solimited. Numerous other operations can be substituted. Moreover, thosecontrol operations can be context specific, and can change as a functionof the operating mode of the electronic device. For example, if theelectronic device is operating in an image capture mode, the controloperation may be zooming in on an object or zooming out from an object.Other control operations will be obvious to those of ordinary skill inthe art having the benefit of this disclosure.

Turning now to FIG. 16, illustrated therein is one method 1600 thatdescribes the operation illustrated above with reference to FIGS. 13-15.At step 1601, the method 1600 determines, with a touch sensor includingat least one proximity sensor component proximately located with afingerprint sensor, that an object such as a user's finger isproximately located with the fingerprint sensor. For example, when theuser's finger is approaching the touch sensor, the at least oneproximity sensor component can detect this by receiving thermal energyin the form of infrared transmissions from the user's finger. In one ormore embodiments, step 1601 comprises receiving, with the proximitysensor component, thermal energy from the object through a thermallyconductive band circumscribing the fingerprint sensor. In one or moreembodiments when this occurs, step 1601 also comprises, in response tothe determining, transitioning the fingerprint sensor from a low-poweror sleep mode to an active mode of operation. Step 1601 can also includeauthenticating the user as previously described.

At step 1602, the method 1600 includes detecting, with either thefingerprint sensor or the proximity sensor component, that the object istouching the fingerprint sensor. Step 1602 can also include detecting,with the fingerprint sensor, an action of the object along thefingerprint sensor. What the action may be is determined at decisions1603,1604,1605. Depending upon the action, at steps 1606,1607,1608 themethod 1600 can perform a control operation as a function of the action.

For example, at decision 1603, the method 1600 can determine whether theaction comprises the object remaining stationary for at least apredetermined duration. Where this occurs, at step 1606 the controloperation can comprise one of powering the electronic device OFF or ON.

At decision 1604, the method 1600 can determine whether the actioncomprises movement of the object along the fingerprint sensor in a firstdirection. Where this occurs, at step 1607 the control operation cancomprise adjusting a volume of an audio output of the electronic device.

At decision 1605, the method 1600 can determine whether the actioncomprises movement of the object along the fingerprint sensor in asecond direction. Where this occurs, at step 1608 the control operationcan comprise a panning operation to alter a presentation on a display ofthe electronic device.

In the methods set forth in FIGS. 13-16, once the user has beenauthenticated and the device is active, the authentication function ofthe fingerprint sensor can be deactivated so that the fingerprint sensorcan be used to detect actions, each of which includes touching thefingerprint sensor. However, embodiments of the disclosure are not solimited. Since there is a proximity sensor component in the touchsensor, it can be used for gesture input once the user has beenauthenticated and the device is active. This additional advantage ofembodiments of the disclosure is shown in FIG. 17.

Turning now to FIG. 17, the electronic device 700 is ON and the user 800has already been authenticated. Accordingly, the proximity sensorcomponent (108) of the touch sensor 112 can be used for gesture input inone or more embodiments. As shown in this example, the user 800 iswaving a hand 1100 above a major face of the electronic device 700. Theuser's hand 1100 delivers an infrared emission 1701 to the proximitysensor component (108) of the touch sensor 112.

In one or embodiments, one or more processors of the electronic device700 can identify the infrared emission 1701 as user input. For example,a gesture in the vertical direction may adjust the volume of Bustersigning the blues, while a gesture in the horizontal direction may serveas play/pause control. The one or more processors can detect this userinput by receiving the infrared emission 1701 and can then execute adifferent control operation than that executed, for example, in any ofFIGS. 13-15. By placing a finger 801 on the proximity sensor component(108), the user 800 can cause the signal delivered to the proximitysensor component (108) to saturate to deliver touch input as well in oneor more embodiments.

Other methods and techniques of delivering user input to an electronicdevice 700 having a user interface that comprises only a touch-sensitivedisplay 702 and a touch sensor 112 will be obvious to those of ordinaryskill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. For example, theproximity sensor component (108) may be able to detect the distance toan object by determining the strength of received infrared emissions.Accordingly, a user may be able to cause a camera application to zoom inand zoom out by moving the electronic device 700 closer and farther fromtheir head. The user may then be able to make a gesture command bywaving their hand 1100 to cause an imager to capture an image.

In the foregoing specification, specific embodiments of the presentdisclosure have been described. However, one of ordinary skill in theart appreciates that various modifications and changes can be madewithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure as set forthin the claims below. Thus, while preferred embodiments of the disclosurehave been illustrated and described, it is clear that the disclosure isnot so limited. Numerous modifications, changes, variations,substitutions, and equivalents will occur to those skilled in the artwithout departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure asdefined by the following claims. Accordingly, the specification andfigures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictivesense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within thescope of present disclosure. The benefits, advantages, solutions toproblems, and any element(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, orsolution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as acritical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all theclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An electronic device, comprising: a housing; auser interface; and one or more processors operable with the userinterface; the user interface comprising a touch sensor comprising: afingerprint sensor; a thermally conductive band circumscribing thefingerprint sensor; and at least one proximity sensor componentcollocated with the thermally conductive band; the at least oneproximity sensor component to actuate the fingerprint sensor uponreceiving an infrared emission from an object external to the housing.2. The electronic device of claim 1, the thermally conductive banddefining at least one aperture, the at least one proximity sensorcomponent collocated with the at least one aperture.
 3. The electronicdevice of claim 2, further comprising a thermally transmissive filmlayer spanning the at least one aperture.
 4. The electronic device ofclaim 2, the thermally conductive band electrically coupled to a groundnode of the electronic device.
 5. The electronic device of claim 2, thethermally conductive band defining a thermal conduit between a surfaceof the thermally conductive band and the at least one proximity sensorcomponent.
 6. The electronic device of claim 2, the thermally conductiveband defining an electrostatic shield for the at least one proximitysensor component.
 7. The electronic device of claim 2, the thermallyconductive band defining an electromagnetic shield for the at least oneproximity sensor component.
 8. The electronic device of claim 2, furthercomprising an audio output device operable with the one or moreprocessors, the at least one aperture defining an acoustic port for theaudio output device.
 9. The electronic device of claim 2, furthercomprising a microphone operable with the one or more processors, the atleast one aperture defining an acoustic port for the microphone.
 10. Theelectronic device of claim 1, the user interface consisting essentiallyof the touch sensor and a touch-sensitive display.
 11. An electronicdevice, comprising: a housing; a user interface comprising a display;and one or more processors operable with the user interface; the userinterface further comprising a touch sensor, the touch sensorcomprising: a fingerprint sensor; a thermally conductive bandcircumscribing the fingerprint sensor; and at least one proximity sensorcomponent collocated with the thermally conductive band; the at leastone proximity sensor component to actuate the display upon receiving aninfrared emission from an object external to the housing.
 12. Theelectronic device of claim 11, the thermally conductive bandcircumscribing the fingerprint sensor and having a shape defined by oneor more corners.
 13. A method in an electronic device, the methodcomprising: determining, with at least one proximity sensor componentproximately located with a fingerprint sensor, that an object isproximately located with the fingerprint sensor; in response todetermining, transitioning the fingerprint sensor from a low-power orsleep mode to an active mode of operation; detecting, with thefingerprint sensor, the object touching the fingerprint sensor; alsodetecting, with the fingerprint sensor, an action of the object alongthe fingerprint sensor; and performing a control operation as a functionof the action.
 14. The method of claim 13, the action comprising theobject touching the fingerprint sensor and remaining stationary for apredefined duration.
 15. The method of claim 14, the control operationcomprising one of powering the electronic device OFF or ON.
 16. Themethod of claim 13, the action comprising movement of the object alongthe fingerprint sensor in a first direction.
 17. The method of claim 16,the control operation comprising adjusting a volume of an audio outputof the electronic device.
 18. The method of claim 13, the actioncomprising movement of the object along the fingerprint sensor in asecond direction.
 19. The method of claim 18, the control operationcomprising a panning operation to alter a presentation on a display ofthe electronic device.
 20. The method of claim 13, the detecting furthercomprising receiving, with the proximity sensor component, thermalenergy from the object through a thermally conductive bandcircumscribing the fingerprint sensor.